On September 4th, 2024, CELF vocational school in Nykøbing F., Denmark, hosted an important event focused on the regional hemp value chain.
On September 4th, 2024, CELF vocational school in Nykøbing F., Denmark, hosted an important event focused on the regional hemp value chain. Forty people from different parts of the hemp industry came together, starting with a visit to the region's first industrial hemp field, presented by Agrovi. The event brought together people from farming, construction, and public and private development sectors, all working to create a strong value chain for growing industrial hemp, making building materials, and using them in construction. Attendees learned from farmers and architects about the benefits of hemp in building.
Key topics:
- The importance of bio-materials like hemp in construction
- Opportunities for growing hemp and using its green tops for food
- The impact of new climate rules and taxes on the whole value chain
Workshop: Building the hemp value chain
Part of the meeting included a workshop where participants shared ideas on creating a regional hemp value chain. They discussed how they could contribute and what challenges they faced. The workshop showed strong interest in hemp, and the event’s organizers, along with Smith Innovation and We Build Denmark, committed to developing a business plan. They also plan to explore funding and ownership options.
Key takeaways from the discussions:
- Hemp’s Profitability: If hemp can be as profitable as other crops, it makes sense to grow it. Hemp also helps improve the soil for future crops.
- Carbon Credits: Farmers could benefit financially from carbon credits earned by using hemp in construction.
- Partnerships: Close collaboration between hemp suppliers and buyers is needed to keep the supply chain strong.
- Creating Demand: One way to increase demand for hemp is to start with imported hemp to show its potential in construction.
Nikolova/Aarsø: “We can only change the construction industry and the agriculture industry if we fully embrace their dependency on each other in a bio-based present and future”
Next steps: developing the hemp business case
As interest in hemp grows, the next step is to create a formal business plan. This includes exploring ownership models and funding to build a strong, sustainable hemp industry in the region. The meeting highlighted the great potential of hemp in construction, but also emphasized the need for partnerships and innovation to make it a reality. With continued effort, Denmark’s hemp value chain could become a key part of sustainable building practices.